Public Meetings - St Petersburg, Florida

The St. Petersburg City Council met on April 18, 2024, to address routine approvals, public comments, a street co-naming, a park expansion, a street vacation ordinance, and a referral for short-term rental regulation. The meeting opened with an invocation by Rabbi Philip Weintraub, a moment of silence for former Governor Bob Graham, and the Pledge of Allegiance. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda unanimously (motion by Councilmember Hanowitz, second by Councilmember Montanari). - The consent agenda included routine approvals such as warrants and other administrative items. Public Comments & Testimony - Rays/Heinz Stadium Deal (Open Forum): Ten speakers addressed the proposed Rays/Heinz stadium redevelopment of the Gas Plant District. Multiple speakers expressed strong opposition, arguing the deal is a "monumental rip off" of public resources (e.g., Ron Diner, Carrie Mueller, Lynn Wilkinson, Jeremy). Key concerns included: the $1.6 billion public subsidy vs. $5 billion in needed water/sewer/stormwater infrastructure repairs; insufficient affordable housing (calls for 60-80% AMI guarantees and more than 1,000 units on-site); the discounted land value; and prioritization of stadium over pressing city needs. Some speakers voiced conditional support (e.g., Ryan Ellenberg, Tara Hubbard) citing economic growth, talent attraction, and historic acknowledgment, but still emphasized the need for fair terms, community benefits, and housing guarantees. The Sierra Club (Michael McGrath) called for net-positive building standards, climate resiliency, microgrids, a 50-foot buffer along Booker Creek with native vegetation, and increased affordable housing beyond 10%. - Street Co-Naming (J2 - Curtis Long Avenue): Pastor Elizabeth Siplin spoke in support of co-naming Urbana Avenue South between Yale Street and 24th Street as "Curtis Long Avenue South," honoring the late Reverend Curtis Long and his wife Alice Long. She highlighted his 33-year leadership at New Faith Free Methodist Church and his profound community impact. - Harbordale Park (F1): Franklin Alves, a neighbor, spoke in favor of the city purchasing the property at 127 42nd Avenue S to expand Harbordale Park, citing safety and security improvements. Discussion Items - Good News Report – Harbordale Park Purchase (F1): Community Enrichment Administrator Mike Jeffers presented a proposal to purchase a residential property (9,600 sq. ft.) adjacent to Harbordale Park. The property currently obstructs the park entrance, creates sight-line and safety issues, and deters appropriate park use. The plan includes demolition, sodding, irrigation, signage, and tree plantings to integrate the lot into the park. Councilmember Driscoll co-sponsored. Councilmember Montaneri and the neighbor spoke in strong support, noting the rare opportunity to expand parkland in a built-out city. The item was approved unanimously. - Short-Term Rental Regulations (G1): Councilmember Hanowitz introduced a new business item to refer discussion to the Public Services & Infrastructure Committee on exploring the city’s ability to issue super fines and establish a short-term rental registry. Councilmember Floyd co-sponsored. Councilmember Gabbert noted that state legislation (Senator DeSigley's bill) may be vetoed and requested the committee discussion be delayed until the governor's action is known. Councilmember Montaneri questioned the bill's status; staff clarified the governor has not signed it yet. The motion to refer passed unanimously, with understanding it will not be scheduled until after the governor's decision. - Street Vacation Ordinance (E1): Ordinance 1166-V was introduced to vacate 9,723 sq. ft. of 42nd Street South in Fairmont Park. The public hearing was set for May 2, 2024. The ordinance was approved unanimously. - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Street Co-Naming (J2): Resolution approved unanimously to co-name Urbana Avenue South as Curtis Long Avenue South. - Harbordale Park Purchase (F1): Approved unanimously to purchase the property at 127 42nd Avenue S for park expansion. - Street Vacation (E1): Approved unanimously to vacate a portion of 42nd Street South. - Short-Term Rental Discussion (G1): Referred to the Public Services & Infrastructure Committee with the caveat that discussion will wait until the governor acts on the related state bill. - No votes were taken on the Rays/Heinz stadium deal; it was discussed only during public comment.

The St. Petersburg City Council met on April 11, 2024, at 20:00 UTC. The meeting began with an invocation, pledge of allegiance, and a tribute to former councilmember and school board member Bill Dudley, who recently passed away. Councilmembers unanimously approved the agenda with an added item (F1) to change the start time of the April 18, 2024 meeting to 4:30 PM. Public comments covered the proposed Rays stadium redevelopment, tree protection, municipal utility feasibility, sidewalk accessibility, and remembrance of Bill Dudley. Several proclamations were presented for Arbor Day, Small Business Week, Fair Housing Month, Earth Day, Water Conservation Month, and Black Maternal Health Week. A new business item (G1) to explore a universal basic mobility pilot program was referred to committee. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda with the addition of item F1 (resolution to change the start time of the April 18, 2024 council meeting to 4:30 PM). Motion passed unanimously, with Councilmember Mohammed absent. - Approved item F1 (time change) unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Peter Kent (address not stated) opposed the Rays stadium deal, arguing it gives Heinz over $1 million per affordable housing unit, the city is paying $25 million to take control of land worth over $650 million, and the deal does not meet fiduciary duties. - Martha Bowden, CEO of SPCA Tampa Bay (address 3250 Fifth Avenue North), expressed wholehearted support for the new ballpark and redevelopment, citing the Rays’ contributions to SPCA through grants, volunteer work, and community partnerships. She urged council to sign the contract. - Owen LaFay, Pinellas County Market President for Bank of Tampa (address 200 Central Avenue), supported the stadium deal, noting the Rays-Heinz proposal provided 72% higher net benefit than other proposals, potential gross property tax revenue of $1.4 billion over 30 years, and community benefits including affordable housing, parks, and equity initiatives. He warned against losing the team. - Lee Allen (address 18th Avenue Northeast) initially came to discuss public transit but instead praised Bill Dudley’s public service. He also supported transit for affordable housing. - Ben Connor (address 66th Avenue South) advocated for St. Petersburg becoming its own municipal utility, citing high Duke Energy bills compared to Tampa Electric and other Florida utilities. He argued profits could fund city programs. - Kathy Harrelson (address 32nd Avenue North in St. Pete Heights) spoke in favor of “Stop the Chop” – a subcommittee of the Urban Forestry Committee – to save large shade trees. She noted over 36,000 permits to cut or trim trees and asked for a presentation at the HERS committee and creation of a task force. - Zion Roland (four-generation native of St. Petersburg) expressed excitement about the Rays development but asked for affordable housing and compensation for natives displaced by eminent domain, referencing his grandfather’s loss of property. - Erica Fulton (address 7960 2nd Street North) described hazardous sidewalk conditions near Gateway Mall that are impassable for wheelchair users, with high curbs, debris, and dog feces. She reported code compliance inaction and requested a commission to address sidewalk issues. Discussion Items - Tribute to Bill Dudley: Councilmember Montaneri delivered a remembrance of former councilmember and school board member Bill Dudley, detailing his education, career as a teacher and coach, and public service. Other councilmembers and public speakers shared memories. - Kids and Cubs Trophy Presentation: The Kids and Cubs senior softball club presented a trophy to the City Council. The club has supported 10 charities this year and has a history of community giving. - Arbor Day Proclamation: Mayor Welch proclaimed Arbor Day and highlighted St. Petersburg’s 37th year as a Tree City USA and new Tree Cities of the World designation. Councilmembers discussed storm damage assessment and tree canopy restoration. - Small Business Week Proclamation: Mayor Welch proclaimed April 28–May 4, 2024 as National Small Business Week. Tracy Smith and co-manager Rennell Montgomery previewed the Greenhouse Open House (April 30–May 3) and recognized microfund program participants and small business partners. - Fair Housing Month Proclamation: Councilmember Gabbard proclaimed April 2024 as Fair Housing Month. Housing director Joshua Johnson and Pinellas Realtor Organization VP Joe Farrell highlighted the April 17 Fair Housing Symposium and ongoing fair housing challenges. - Earth Day Proclamation: Councilmember Gabbard proclaimed April 22, 2024 as Earth Day. Speakers from St. Pete Youth Farm and Eckerd College Community Farm celebrated urban agriculture and environmental education events, including the April 20 Earth Day celebration at the Youth Farm. - Water Conservation Month Proclamation: Councilmember Hanowitz proclaimed April 2024 as Water Conservation Month. Water resources director John Palinshar and Al Smith reported that St. Petersburg uses about 30 million gallons per day (vs. 62 million projected in 1971), thanks to conservation programs including rain barrel rebates, sensible sprinkling, and free classes. They reminded residents of mandatory weekly watering restrictions through July. - Black Maternal Health Week Proclamation: Chair Fig Sanders proclaimed April 11–17, 2024 as Black Maternal Health Week. Dr. Michara Frost noted Black mothers in Florida are four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes. Doula Alyssa Love Bedard shared a story of a Black woman who lost her baby due to medical dismissal and called for equitable maternal care. - New Business G1: Universal Basic Mobility Pilot Program: Councilmember Driscoll moved to refer discussion of a Universal Basic Mobility pilot program to the Housing, Land Use, and Transportation committee. The program would provide a monthly transportation stipend for non-car mobility options (bus, bike share, scooters, rideshare). The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Agenda approved unanimously (with addition of F1). - Item F1 (reschedule April 18 meeting to 4:30 PM) approved unanimously. - Item G1 (referral of universal basic mobility pilot program to committee) approved unanimously. - Councilmember Gabbard announced a medical emergency with his mother and thanked the community for prayers. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 21:30 (estimated from transcript flow).

The St. Petersburg City Council met on April 4, 2024, at 9:00 AM, with public hearings beginning after 9:30 AM. Mayor Ken Welch and council members were present, except Councilmember Gabbard. The meeting covered consent items, open forum, a funding agreement amendment, a council committee referral, and two public hearings on ordinances related to public art and housing definitions. Consent Calendar - The agenda and consent agenda were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Jane Cooley (clergy, guardian ad litem) urged the council to create at least 5,000 units of affordable housing for those making 80% or less of area median income (AMI). - Kathy Philippelli (St. Matthew's Catholic Church, FAST) advocated for affordable housing at 80% AMI or less, in perpetuity, and criticized Mayor Welch for not attending the Nehemiah Action. She called on him to show leadership. - Pat Fling noted that at least 16,000 people in St. Pete live under 80% AMI and urged an ambitious affordable housing goal. She encouraged council members and the mayor to attend the April 30 Nehemiah Action. - Carrie Mueller (professional engineer, former Community Benefits Advisory Council member) opposed the stadium deal, stating that seven promises (e.g., no property tax impact, 1,200 affordable units, African American Museum, convention center) were not true. She urged the council to vote no. - Jeremy Tolburg compared the stadium deal to Baltimore’s costly sports complexes, arguing it would lead to fiscal collapse. He noted the cost would be $5,250 per city resident and questioned whether residents would support that. Discussion Items - Item F1: Second Amendment to Funding Agreement (Namaste 616) – Special Projects Manager Mark Van Loon presented a second amendment to extend the timeline for the 11-unit townhome project to March 7, 2025. The extension allows completion of sales and replat for two additional units. The motion passed unanimously. - Council Committee Report (Vacancy Filling Process) – Councilmember Hanowitz moved to refer the business item on filling city council vacancies to a committee of the whole, with proposed amendments requiring a supermajority vote and leaving a vacancy unfilled if it occurs close to or during the regular election. The motion also noted discussion on mayoral vacancies. The motion passed unanimously. - Item E1: Ordinance on Works of Art (Chapter 5 Amendment) – The ordinance allows art acquired with Art in Public Places funds to be placed on county-owned land (e.g., the stadium site) if city council waives the ownership requirement, provided title vests in a government entity. It also requires art to be placed on city-owned property if not at the project site. Councilmember Driscoll opposed, arguing it changes a long-standing ordinance for one project and uses city funds that could be saved. Councilmember Floyd supported with concerns but noted a future broader review of the public art ordinance. The ordinance passed 6-1 (Driscoll no). - Item E2: Ordinance on Housing Definitions (Chapter 28 Amendment) – Mark Van Loon presented amendments to clarify definitions of “new construction” (up to 5 years from certificate of occupancy) and “special circumstances” for the property tax abatement program. Princess Leani (St. Petersburg College student) expressed support, citing the high cost of living. The ordinance passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved unanimously: Agenda, consent agenda, Item F1 (funding amendment), council committee referral, Item E2 (housing definitions). - Item E1 (public art ordinance) approved 6-1 (Councilmember Driscoll dissenting). - The council committee on vacancy filling is scheduled for April 18, 2024. - The meeting adjourned after announcements.

This meeting began with numerous proclamations and awards, followed by extended public comments on the proposed Rays/Heinz stadium and Gas Plant District redevelopment. Council also debated outside legal fees, a public art ordinance change, and approved several infrastructure grants and floodplain amendments. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda and consent agenda unanimously. - Items I1 & I2: Settlements for police cruiser and sanitation truck accident claims ($36,000 and $60,000) approved unanimously. - Item H1: Property insurance renewal (Brown & Brown) approved unanimously. - Items F2–F5: Four infrastructure grants (Southwest O&M buildings, Shore Acres resiliency, Salt Creek conveyance and pump station) totaling approximately $28 million in savings, approved unanimously. - Item F6 (approved after reconvening from CRA): Unanimous vote. - Item CRA2: Amendment to affordable single-family homeownership program – increased down payment/closing cost assistance from $60,000 to $75,000 – approved unanimously. - Items J2A & J2B: Floodplain management ordinance amendments – approved unanimously. - Item J3: Housing code definition updates – approved unanimously (first reading). - Item J1: Street corner easement vacation – approved unanimously. - Items G1–G6: New business referrals (Lincoln/Greenwood Cemeteries, condo hotel code, development regulation update, milestone inspections, 49th Street safety study, resiliency COW) – all approved unanimously (G1 unanimous; G2 with Gerdes absent; G3 with Gerdes absent; G4 with Gerdes absent; G5 unanimous; G6 with Floyd absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Against Rays/Heinz stadium deal: Multiple speakers criticized the proposal as a corporate giveaway, citing discounted land, insufficient affordable housing (only 600 on-site units at high end of affordability), lack of contract details, and poor return on investment. A League of Women Voters survey showed overwhelming opposition. - In favor of Rays/Heinz stadium deal: Speakers cited economic growth, job creation, community cohesion, and potential for a high-tech stadium and mixed-use development. - Other public comments: A speaker requested appointment as proprietary liaison; a pastor spoke about homelessness and urged investment in outreach; FAST-affiliated speakers called for more affordable housing targeting families below 80% AMI. Discussion Items - F7 – Legal fees for Gas Plant District: Council debated a $400,000 increase (from $550,000 to $950,000) for outside counsel (Faegre Drinker). Supporters argued it provided necessary expertise and workload relief; opponents said it was driven by an artificial rush and expressed confidence in in-house staff. Vote passed 6–2 (Floyd and Hanewicz voting no). - E1 – Public Art Ordinance Amendment: Proposed change to allow city-funded public art on non-city-owned property and to allow divestiture of city ownership. Administration said the change was needed to place art on county-owned land at a future stadium. Councilmembers raised concerns about transparency, private property implications, and the connection to stadium negotiations. First reading passed 7–1 (Hanewicz voting no); second public hearing set for April 4. Key Outcomes - Approved $400,000 in additional outside legal fees for Gas Plant District redevelopment (6–2). - Advanced public art code amendment (7–1 on first reading). - Referred Lincoln and Greenwood Cemeteries historic recognition to HLUT committee (unanimous). - Approved $28 million in state/federal grants for resilience and flood control projects. - Increased down payment assistance cap to $75,000 for first-time homebuyers (CRA unanimous). - All other consent and new business items passed unanimously or with limited absences. Awards & Proclamations - Government Finance Professionals Week (March 18–22, 2024) - Transgender Day of Visibility (March 31, 2024) - Irish American Heritage Month (March 2024) - Sunshine Ambassador Award to Johanna Dennis (age 10, for book drive) - Women’s History Month (March 2024) - Gibbs High School Boys Basketball State Champions - Super Bowl Champion Marquez Valdez-Scantling

The St. Petersburg City Council met on February 29, 2024, to address a wide range of items, including consent agenda approvals, public forum comments, a quasi-judicial appeal, capital improvement updates, and several referrals. Key discussions involved the proposed Rays/Hines development, an affordable housing request from FAST, a city facilities maintenance report, and a legally complex condo-hotel project appeal.

The St. Petersburg City Council convened on February 15, 2024, at 6:30 PM. The meeting included approval of routine items, a police department quarterly report, a resolution for the 2024 Firestone Grand Prix, discussion of a street vacation ordinance, and a lengthy debate and vote on a resolution supporting peace and security in Palestine and Israel. The meeting also covered several land use and zoning changes and a historic landmark designation. Consent Calendar - Agenda approved unanimously. - Consent agenda approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Open Forum: Speakers addressed a wide range of topics. Frank Cirillo requested an independent review of the city's investment policy. Pastor Oscar Banks expressed strong support for affordable housing and criticized the city's focus on higher-income housing. Several speakers addressed a proposed ceasefire resolution, with Eric Reiner, Janet Hammer, and Tiffany Robinson opposing it, arguing it was outside the council's purview and would harm Israel. Tatiana Haverkamp, Amanda Dodie, Dr. Chelsea Rivera, and Jay James spoke in favor of the ceasefire resolution, citing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Walt Driggers thanked the council for supporting the Barrington Irving scholarship event. Dr. Chelsea Rivera urged support for Council Member Floyd's resolution. - Public Comment on Police Report: William Kilgore criticized the police department's enforcement of a daytime sleeping ordinance, stating it criminalizes homelessness and that the PATH unit is insufficient. - Public Comment on Vacation Ordinance (E2): Roger Curlin (Edge Business District) and Debbie Reeser supported the project but opposed a required east-west pedestrian easement, citing safety concerns. Don Mastery, representing the property owners, argued the easement would create security issues and that similar vacations elsewhere did not require such easements. - Public Comment on Ceasefire Resolution (G5): Over 30 speakers testified, split between support and opposition. Supporters (e.g., Rabbi Jen Mangold, Marla Setkick, Dr. Christy Faust, Sam Obaid, many others) called for an immediate ceasefire, citing the high casualty numbers (over 30,000 Palestinians, including 11,000 children), the humanitarian crisis, and the need to align with other cities. Opponents (e.g., Ken Sherman, Eric Passman, Craig Sher, Stuart Berger, Rabbi Ed Rosenthal, Rabbi Philip Weintraub, Karen Lieberman, Michael Eagle) argued that a ceasefire would leave Hamas in power, endanger Israel, and that the resolution was one-sided and anti-Semitic. Several speakers noted the absence of condemnation of Hamas's October 7th attack. Discussion Items - F1: Police Department Quarterly Report (October-December 2023): Chief Anthony Holloway reported that overall crime was up 1% but down 1.5% compared to the previous year, with violent crime down 4.5% and property crime up 2.4%. Homicides were down 18% compared to 2022, and all homicides in 2022 and 2023 were cleared by arrest. Auto thefts were up 9% (five-year trend up 24%) but trending downward in recent months. The department's community liaison program and PATH unit were highlighted. Council members discussed auto theft repeat offenders, gun thefts from vehicles, and the need to continue public education. - F2: Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg Resolution: Chris Villestra presented the 20th anniversary of the race, highlighting an economic impact of $61 million, $37 million in direct spending, and $3.3 million in tax revenue from the 2023 event. The resolution establishing race days (March 7-10, 2024) was approved unanimously. - E1 & E2: Street Vacation Ordinances: E1 (vacation of 20 feet on 23rd Avenue) passed unanimously. E2 (vacation of alley and Commercial Avenue South) involved extensive debate over a proposed east-west pedestrian easement. The applicant and Edge Business District opposed the easement, citing safety and operational concerns. The Transportation and Parking Management Department requested it for pedestrian connectivity. Council Member Floyd supported the easement, asking what the city gets in return. Council Member Montanari and others supported the developer's request to delete the easement requirement. The motion to approve E2 (with the easement condition included) passed unanimously on first reading, with further discussion scheduled for second reading. - G1, G2, G3: New Business Items: These items passed unanimously. G1 referred a property acquisition to the budget committee. G2 discussed amendments to alcoholic beverage rules for the Edge District. G3 referred discussion of floor area ratio bonuses for workforce housing to the housing committee. - G5: Resolution Supporting Peace and Security for All in Palestine and Israel (Ceasefire Resolution): Council Member Floyd presented the resolution, which called for an immediate bilateral ceasefire, release of hostages, and humanitarian aid. After lengthy public comment, Council Chair Fig Sanders offered a substitute resolution titled "Supporting Global Peace and Security for All," which removed specific references to ceasefire but included language about diplomatic approaches. Council Member Hanowitz proposed an amendment to change "support ceasefires" to "a diplomatic approach." The substitute resolution was passed 5-3, with Council Members Driscoll, Fig-Sanders, Gabbard, Gurdis, and Hanowitz voting yes, and Floyd, Montanari, and Mohammed voting no. Quasi-Judicial Items - J1-J3, J4: Approved unanimously. - J5A & B: Land Use and Zoning Change for Housing Authority Project (2300 31st Street N): Amendments to allow affordable housing (80 units, 100% affordable at 80% AMI or below) were approved unanimously. Council Member Floyd praised the project. - J6A & B: Land Use and Zoning Change for Workforce Housing (7045 Burlington Avenue N): City-initiated amendments to allow 105 workforce housing units, with 30% for St. Pete College staff/students, were approved unanimously. - J7: Historic Landmark Designation (Will Cressy and Blanche Danes Cressy House, 625 20th Avenue NE): Unanimously approved. Council members commended the owners for their preservation efforts. Key Outcomes - Police Report accepted with appreciation. - Firestone Grand Prix Resolution approved unanimously. - Street Vacation E2 passed first reading unanimously; final reading set for February 29, 2024. - Ceasefire Resolution (G5): Council Chair Fig Sanders' substitute resolution "Supporting Global Peace and Security for All" passed 5-3, replacing Council Member Floyd's original resolution. - All quasi-judicial items (J1-J7) approved unanimously. - Meeting timeline: The meeting started at 6:30 PM and adjourned after several hours, including a 30-minute dinner break around 6:30-7:00 PM.

The St. Petersburg City Council met on Thursday, February 8, 2024, in a regular meeting that included an invocation by Reverend Don Warden, the Pledge of Allegiance, unanimous approval of the agenda, public comment, several mayoral proclamations, a report on the city’s tree inventory and planting programs, and unanimous referral of Rays/Historic Gas Plant development agreements to two Committee of the Whole meetings. Mayor Ken Welch joined councilmembers for the presentations. Proclamations & Presentations - Therapeutic Recreation Month (February 2024): Mayor Welch proclaimed the month in recognition of the Parks and Recreation Department’s Therapeutic Recreation Division. Program staff noted the division began in 1970, hosts over 100 participants monthly, and serves ages 5 to 72. Councilmember Driscoll praised the program and urged efforts to reduce waitlists. - Localtopia Day (February 24, 2024): Mayor Welch proclaimed the day for the 11th annual Localtopia festival at Williams Park, organized by Keep St. Petersburg Local. Olga Boof thanked the city and Parks and Recreation, and Councilmember Driscoll encouraged sponsorships and donations. - St. Petersburg Science Festival Days (February 9–10, 2024): Mayor Welch proclaimed the days, held with Marine Quest. Festival representative Howard Rutherford reported more than 250 volunteers, 1,100 fourth and fifth graders from Title I schools for a sneak peek, 15,000 expected Saturday, 77 exhibiting organizations, and 55 junior scientists. - Black History Month (February 2024): Mayor Welch proclaimed February 2024 as Black History Month. Representatives of the Woodson African American History Museum discussed preserving Black history and future redevelopment of the Tropicana Field area; they affirmed their work would continue despite recently reported state action regarding flag displays over government entities. - Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month (February 2024): Councilmember Hanowitz presented the proclamation with Hope Villages of America Vice President John Long. Long said one in three adolescent girls experiences dating violence, only 33% of teens tell anyone, half of affected teens attempt suicide, and 43% of teen violence incidents occur on school property. Public Comments & Testimony - Ron Diner (Snow Isle resident) opposed the current Rays/Heinz development proposal, saying it is unfair to St. Petersburg and that a fairer deal could provide $1.6 billion in resources that would be lost under the current deal. He urged the council to table approval and conduct independent due diligence beyond presentations from the team or the city. - Ben Winder (Pastor, First Baptist Church of St. Petersburg; FAITH) called on Mayor Welch to create 5,000 affordable housing units for households earning 80% of area median income or less by the end of his first term. He invited the mayor and council to the Nehemiah Action on April 30, 2024, at 7 p.m. - Jessica Eysterman (St. Pete Chamber board member and land use attorney) expressed support for the Rays/Heinz proposal, emphasizing the importance of mixed-income, mixed-use development; she clarified she is not the project’s attorney. Discussion Items: Tree Inventory and Tree Planting Programs Sustainability and Resilience Director Alison Mihalich reported on tree canopy efforts. Key points included: - The city’s tree canopy goal is 30%; a 2022 analysis estimated 27%, while preliminary 2023 desk analysis suggests just over 30%, pending field validation. - Funding includes two $100,000 tree mini-grant rounds, a $49,000 Florida Forest Service grant matched by $49,000 for 350 trees in Child’s Park, and a $300,000 supplemental appropriation. - Round one of neighborhood tree mini-grants drew 23 applications and awarded eight; more than 135 trees are expected. Round two received seven applications. - In 2023, more than 4,500 trees were mapped by volunteers; over 175 residents participated; citizen foresters volunteered 650+ hours; 306 bald cypress seedlings were distributed. - The city received its 38th Tree City USA certification and a Tree City Growth Award, plus Tree Cities of the World recognition. Councilmember Montaneri expressed frustration that his annual request to fund 1,000 new trees has not been fulfilled and said the city needs to exceed that number, given 1,300–1,400 tree-removal permits per year. He indicated he would seek BP and WikiWanchi funds to plant more trees. Councilmember Gabber asked about replanting damaged trees near 83rd Avenue after flooding; staff said they would follow up on the city’s replanting commitment. Councilmember Driscoll raised concerns about excessive process burdens and asked whether business districts and non-neighborhood groups could participate. Neighborhood Relations Director Susie Ahawk responded that business associations are eligible and that the city is adding pre-application meetings and a reverse-letter opt-out approach to expand participation. Key Outcomes - Agenda approved unanimously. - Committee of the Whole referral (G1): Council unanimously approved Councilmember Montaneri’s motion to schedule at least two Committee of the Whole meetings — one covering the Rays stadium operating, development, and funding agreements and financing, and one covering the Historic Gas Plant development agreement and financing. Council members are to receive final proposed draft agreements at least two weeks in advance. The motion was approved unanimously; no decisions on the agreements were made at this meeting.

The St. Petersburg City Council meeting on February 1, 2024, began with an invocation, a moment of silence for fallen officer David S. Crawford, and the Pledge of Allegiance. The meeting proceeded with agenda adjustments, consent agenda, a public hearing, open forum, new ordinances, committee reports, and new business items. Council Members Driscoll, Gabbert, and Mohammed were absent. Consent Calendar - Agenda Approval: Motion to approve the agenda passed unanimously after Councilmember Floyd withdrew item H3 (a community feedback item) to allow for further community conversations. - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. A speaker, David Socle, acknowledged the city’s co-sponsorship of a Juneteenth event at Al Winned Park, praising the diverse board involvement. Public Comments & Testimony - Open Forum (30 minutes total, then resumed after a flag-raising recess): Nine speakers addressed the council on various topics: - Lynn Wilkinson (534 22nd Ave SE) spoke against the proposed gas plant redevelopment deal, arguing the city sidestepped a public referendum by using a CRA designation, depriving citizens of a vote. She criticized the deal for giving the Rays control over 64 acres with no stadium revenue or tax revenue, and said the city is paying off debt from Tropicana Field while neglecting infrastructure and affordable housing. - Rosie Meyer (1301 45th Ave N) expressed support for the Rays/Heinz development, citing St. Petersburg’s baseball history, economic benefits, and her own family’s experience (restaurant business near the Trop). She noted that Northeast Little League registration is up, showing a built-in fan base, and referenced her work on SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles as an example of community-conscious development. - Paul Carter (341 5th St S) supported the Rays/Heinz proposal, calling it the most significant economic development opportunity for the city, with over $6 billion invested, 1 million square feet of office space, and 37,000 projected jobs. His speech was cut short due to the 10:30 a.m. flag-raising recess. - Don LeGrone (2620 13th St N) opposed the current plan, recalling broken promises from the 1978 CRA displacement. He urged the city to obtain a new land appraisal (estimating current value at $700–$900 million, not $105 million), develop the land at market rates, and use proceeds for infrastructure, affordable housing, and climate resilience. - Matthew Widener (250 Mirror Lake) expressed frustration over the city staff’s unilateral historic designation of Mirror Lake, which he said was done without council knowledge, over the holidays, and could harm property values. He criticized the city’s ballot-altering ordinance on historic designations and called for a review of the process. - Peter Kent (Aid Academy Way) proposed a six-step alternative to the Rays/Heinz deal: offer the Rays a five-acre parcel for $25 million or a one-year lease; develop Booker Creek into a linear park; set aside land for the African American Museum and cemetery; obtain a new land appraisal; sell parcels at market rates; and establish a $50 million community benefit trust plus a $250 million affordable housing trust from land sale profits. - Ashley Ruttenbeck (601 55th St N) spoke in support of agenda item G3 (land use change for affordable housing), citing her background as a public policy major and nonprofit work for homeless veterans. She highlighted the St. Petersburg Housing Authority’s role in providing housing for 4,000 low-income families, seniors, and veterans, and noted the city’s 0.82% annual population growth. - Additional speakers (Jason Spears, and others) were called but did not speak due to non-residency or the removal of item H3. Discussion Items - E1 – Amendment to FY2019-2020 Annual Action Plan: Public hearing; approved unanimously. - G1 – Ordinance amending travel expense authorization: First reading; approved unanimously. - G2A & B – Land use and zoning change for 7045 Burlington Ave N: From Institutional to Residential Medium and NT-2 to NSM-1; approved unanimously. - G3A & B – Land use and zoning change for 1.35-acre parcel at 32nd Ave N & Hartford St N: From Residential Medium to Planned Redevelopment Mixed Use and from NSM-1 to CCS-1; approved unanimously after public hearing. - G4 – Historic landmark designation for Will Cressy and Blanche Dane Cressy House (625 20th Ave NE): Approved unanimously. - I1A – Resolution authorizing agreement with Matrix Consulting for management evaluation of St. Petersburg Fire Rescue Department: Approved unanimously. - H1 – Councilmember Motineering’s referral to the Budget, Finance & Taxation Committee on revision to fiscal policies for interfund loans (up to $5 million from Economic Stability Fund): Approved unanimously. Council Vice Chair Gurtis voiced support for the flexibility. - H2 – Councilmember Motineering’s item deferred due to insufficient votes (needed 6 for referral to Committee of the Whole). - H4 – Vice Chair Gurtis’s referral to BFT committee on issuing a one-year note for utility FY24 CIP: Approved unanimously. - H5 – Councilmember Floyd’s referral to Housing, Land Use & Transportation Committee on tenant protections for city-owned and city-subsidized housing: Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Votes: All voting items passed unanimously among present council members. No votes on H3 (withdrawn) or H2 (deferred). - Referrals: Items H1, H4, and H5 were referred to respective committees for further discussion. - Public Hearing: E1 (amendment to annual action plan) passed after open forum. - Next Steps: Item H3 to be brought back after more community conversations; items H1, H4, H5 to be discussed in committee meetings. The council also noted the Black History Month flag raising that occurred at 10:00 a.m., with the meeting briefly recessed for that event.

The St. Petersburg City Council met on January 18, 2024, to discuss and vote on multiple items, including the Deuces Rising affordable townhome development, legal settlements, a parking ordinance amendment, and other administrative matters. Public comment was dominated by opposition to the proposed Rays/Hines stadium deal and calls for increased affordable housing. Several votes were taken, with the most contentious being the approval of the townhome project, which passed 5-2. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved unanimously (with Councilmember Gabbard absent) after adding CB14 and CB15 (resolution confirming council appointments). - The consent agenda was approved unanimously. Councilmember Montanari noted that CB2 is part of the tree planting program and expressed support. Public Comments & Testimony - Don LeGrone (2620 13th St N) opposed the Rays/Hines deal, arguing it fails to provide homeownership opportunities or below-market rate housing for lower-income residents. He stated that less than 50% of units are for those below 100% AMI, none are for purchase, and the developer can opt out with a $25,000 per unit penalty, which he said should be the actual construction cost. He called for renegotiation. - Ron Dinner (Brightwaters Blvd) claimed the deal costs St. Petersburg taxpayers $1.6 billion, not $300 million, due to borrowing, tax exemptions, and land sale. He said the public does not want the deal and urged renegotiation. - Robin Davidov (League of Women Voters) expressed deep concern about diverting public dollars, stating that TIF and bed taxes create fiscal holes that may lead to higher taxes or reduced services. She urged careful examination of the deal. - Peter Kent (Eckerd College faculty) reported that 92% of his colleagues voted to reject the deal. He cited corporate welfare, a need for new land appraisal (expecting $600 million to $1 billion), the Rays' low net stadium investment ($100 million after naming rights), lack of economic impact, and legal issues with extending the CRA for a non-blighted downtown. - Pat Fling (FAST) and Catherine Filippelli described the affordable housing crisis and asked Councilmember Gurtis to help secure a meeting with Mayor Welch, who they said has not responded to requests for meetings on affordable housing commitments. - Dylan Dames (Faith in Florida) urged the council to consider community input on the gas plant redevelopment and allow the Community Benefits Advisory Council to communicate with residents. - Jeremy Tolberg argued the stadium deal is unfair to taxpayers and that a stadium does not justify billions in public investment. - Bishop Manuel Sykes (Bethlehem Community Baptist Church) criticized the city for providing hundreds of millions for billionaires while neglecting affordable housing for the poor. He noted a glut of luxury apartments and 16,000 on the housing waitlist. Discussion Items - Legal Settlements (I1, I2, I3): Approved unanimously. - I1: $75,000 settlement for a former police officer's workers' compensation claim (injury in 2021), avoiding future exposure of over $1 million. - I2: $125,000 settlement (sovereign immunity cap) for a pedestrian struck by a police car in 2020, causing significant injuries. - I3: $59,500 settlement for a pedestrian struck by a police car in February 2020. - Deuces Rising Townhomes (F1A, F1B, F2): - Presentation by Raoul Quintana (City Architect Manager) detailed 24 affordable workforce townhomes on 2.7 acres at 22nd Street South. The project includes fee-simple homeownership, 50% of units at 80% AMI and 50% at 120% AMI, with resale restrictions for long-term affordability. Total project cost is $19.1 million, including a $5.98 million interfund loan from the Economic Stability Fund, $6.5 million in ARPA funds, and other sources. The construction GMP is $13,126,098. Council debated the high subsidy (over $500,000 per unit). Administration argued the project is a catalyst for the historic Deuces corridor and includes infrastructure benefiting future commercial development. - Councilmember Floyd expressed concern about the cost effectiveness, suggesting the subsidy could fund more units elsewhere. Councilmember Hanowitz noted the total subsidy per unit is even higher when including the land cost, and said this is not a replicable model. Councilmember Montanari questioned the interfund loan cap and fairness of subsidy. Councilmember Gurtis emphasized the homeownership aspect and generational wealth building. Councilmember Mohammed appreciated the community-driven process but noted lessons learned. Mayor's administration explained that alternative plans would delay the project 3-5 years. - F1A (resolution for interfund loan and supplemental appropriation) passed 5-2 (Driscoll, Fig Sanders, Gurtis, Hanowitz, Mohammed yes; Floyd and Montanari no). - F1B (acceptance of GMP and third amendment to contract) passed 5-2 (same split). - F2 (amendment to Stantec agreement for soil remediation monitoring, $80,590) passed unanimously. - Sunken Gardens Animal Care Center (F3, F4): - Presentation by Beth Herrendine (Special Projects Manager) on a new animal care center funded by the city. The Sunken Gardens Forever Foundation donated $83,500 for custom bird enclosures (F3). A supplemental appropriation of $69,500 from fund balance covered security and furnishings (F4). Both passed unanimously. - Shore Acres Water Main Replacement (F5): Presentation by Engineering Director Bajesh Freeman on designing replacement of aging water mains. A reclaim water line break during a recent storm was noted as unrelated. Passed unanimously. - Parking Enforcement for Domestic and Commercial Equipment (J4): Director Evan Morrey presented an ordinance amending the definition of domestic equipment to include modified vans/RVs (e.g., raised roofs, exterior AC units) subject to 4-hour parking limits adjacent to residential uses. The change addresses long-term parking of live-in vehicles on streets like North Shore Drive. Councilmember Floyd voted no, expressing concern about property rights for homeowners without alley access. Passed 6-1. - WWE Royal Rumble Clean Zone (J5): Designated a clean zone in downtown for the event; approved unanimously (J5A ordinance, J5B resolution). - Right-of-Way Vacations (J6, J7): Approved unanimously. - Public Hearings (J1-J3): Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - F1A (Deuces Rising townhomes funding) passed 5-2. - F1B (GMP acceptance) passed 5-2. - F2 (Stantec amendment) passed unanimously. - J4 (parking ordinance) passed 6-1. - All other items passed unanimously (Councilmember Gabbard absent for all votes). - Councilmember Gurtis announced the St. Petersburg Boat Show and birthdays for Councilmember Hanowitz and legislative aide Brian Cassanis.